Graduate programs in the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic may only have been in existence since 1993, but it already packs a big punch on the European stage. Capital Prague is one of Europe’s major tourist destinations and is also the Czech Republic’s centre of education.

However, there is a lot more to see beyond the Danube and famous castle in Prague. The Czech Republic has a fascinating history built on the twin history of Bohemia and Moravia, beautiful architecture and some of the best beer in the world.

Studying a graduate program in the Czech Republic is your opportunity to study in this young but historically rich country.

Population: 10,500,000

Education overview

Higher education in the Czech Republic consists of three different kinds of institution:

Public universities

State universities

Private universities

Most international students studying a graduate program in the Czech Republic will opt to study at private institutions where tuition fees are normally higher, but many public universities in the Czech Republic also accept international students, providing their Czech language skills are acceptable.

Masters degree programs in the Czech Republic take between 1-3 years to complete, providing you have already finished an undergraduate program. You’ll have to take a final state examination and present a thesis as part of your qualification.

Most graduate programs in the Czech Republic are taught in Czech, so make sure your language skills are up to standard.

Immigration and visas in the Czech Republic

EU citizens are permitted to take a graduate course in the Czech Republic without a visa providing they can demonstrate the following:

You are studying for more than three months

You have sufficient income or savings to support yourself during your studies

You are enrolled at an approved or accredited institution

You have comprehensive health insurance

Non-EU students will need to apply for a student visa through the Czech embassy in their home countries. You should check with the embassy for more details, but the processing time is normally around three to four months.

Life in the Czech Republic

Life in the Czech Republic is a mixture of the peaceful and relaxed in the countryside and late nights and partying in the cities, particularly Prague. The Czech Republic is home to numerous spas, picturesque towns and woodland to hike if you’re an outdoor person, but its cities are full of culture, bars and plenty of socialising.

One unavoidable aspect of life in the Czech Republic is beer. The country is known as one of the world’s premier producers of beer and it isn’t uncommon to see people indulging in a drink throughout the day – and late into the night.

However, it’s not all about partying. The Czech Republic has a long history in the arts, from the literature of Hasek and long-time resident Kafka to the art of Kubista and Kupka.

Working in the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic has one of the most stable and prosperous economies out of the post-Communist states, experiencing growth of more than 6% year-on-year up to the outbreak of the global financial crisis.

The country’s principal industry is manufacturing, from iron and steel production to chemicals and electronics. Tourism is also a major contributor to the economy, particularly in capital Prague.

EU students are able to work in the Czech Republic under the terms of the EU.

Accommodation

International students coming to study a graduate program in the Czech Republic generally live in one of two types of accommodation:

University accommodation – such as halls of residence

Private accommodation – House and flat rentals

University accommodation is most graduate students’ preferred option, as it will allow you to meet fellow students and settle into student life in the Czech Republic more easily. It is also often cheaper, as many halls will also provide you with food and study areas.

Renting a private flat in the Czech Republic may appeal to students with families, or those who want a little more privacy.

Climate in the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic has a temperate climate, typified by hot summers and cold, snowy winters. Winter is at its coldest in the Czech Republic between December and February, when temperatures can fall as low as -4C.

Summer is at its warmest between June and August, with lots of sunshine and temperatures of around 22C on average.

Transport

The Czech Republic is a landlocked country with an extensive railway network. More than 180 million passengers use Czech railways and the country has one of the densest railway networks in Europe.

The country is always well connected by air. More than 40 airports carry passengers in the Czech Republic, with Vaclav Havel airport in Prague being the main international airport in the country.

Currency

The currency of the Czech Republic is the Czech koruna.

What to do next

If you would like more information about studying a graduate program in Czech Republic, fill out our Free Application Service and we'll get in touch with you promptly with tailored information on studying abroad, great courses and advice on how to apply online.